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*Ingredients:*
– 200g Belgian dark chocolate (70% cocoa solids), chopped
– 200g unsalted butter, softened
– 200g caster sugar
– 4 large eggs
– 200g self-raising flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 100ml whole milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
*For the chocolate ganache:*
– 150g Belgian dark chocolate, chopped
– 150ml double cream
1. **Preheat** your oven to 180°C (160°C fan / 350°F / gas mark 4). Grease and line a 9-inch round cake tin with parchment paper.
2. **Melt the chocolate:** Place the 200g of chopped Belgian dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pan of gently simmering water (double boiler). Stir occasionally until melted and smooth. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. **Prepare the cake batter:** In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until pale and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
4. **Combine dry ingredients:** Sift the self-raising flour, baking powder, and salt into the bowl with the butter mixture. Fold gently until just combined.
5. **Add wet ingredients:** Stir in the melted chocolate, whole milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until the batter is smooth and well combined.
6. **Bake the cake:** Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. **Make the ganache:** While the cake is baking, prepare the chocolate ganache. Heat the double cream in a saucepan until it just begins to boil. Remove from heat and pour over the 150g of chopped Belgian dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until smooth and glossy. Set aside to cool and thicken slightly.
8. **Assemble the cake:** Once the cake has cooled completely in the tin, remove it onto a serving plate. Pour the cooled ganache over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
9. **Serve:** Slice and enjoy your decadent cake with Belgian chocolate! Optionally, garnish with fresh berries or a dusting of cocoa powder before serving.
This rich and indulgent cake with Belgian chocolate is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress chocolate lovers!